I have loved and cared for pets since I was a small child. My love for fur babies started with my first pet, a boxer mix named Apollo. My parents recognized my affinity for caring for animals and quickly grew our family by adding a Guinea pig, several frogs, and a cat. In 6th grade I joined the school animal club where I learned about and cared for fish, hamsters, Guinea pigs, and even a snake. Throughout my childhood and into my teens it was not uncommon for me to bring home lost or injured animals I’d find in my neighborhood. My mom thought I’d grow out of this “habit,” as she called it, but she was wrong. Now that I’m an adult I have a spoiled pup who eats better than some animals, and on the few occasions when I’ve encountered stray cats and dogs I didn’t hesitate bringing them home for fresh food, water, and TLC before trying to locate the owners. My family lovingly refers to me as the “dog whisperer” because of how good I am with them. While I somewhat disagree with that title, I definitely feel that my passion for animals helps me understand and care for them with love.